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Trivia: Musical Terms

Subject : trivia
Instructions:
  • Answer 50 questions in 15 minutes.
  • If you are not ready to take this test, you can study here.
  • Match each statement with the correct term.
  • Don't refresh. All questions and answers are randomly picked and ordered every time you load a test.

This is a study tool. The 3 wrong answers for each question are randomly chosen from answers to other questions. So, you might find at times the answers obvious, but you will see it re-enforces your understanding as you take the test each time.
1. Two or three melodic lines played at the same time.






2. Elaborate polyphonic composition of the Boroque and Renaissance periods.






3. A composition written for three to six voices. Beginning with the exposition - each voice enters at different times - creating counterpoint with one another.






4. The first violin in an orchestra.






5. A form of writing for vocals that is close to the manner of speech and is rhythmically free.






6. The tonal characteristics determined by the relationship of the notes to the tone.






7. A string of chords played in succession.






8. A dance written in triple time - where the accent falls on the first beat of each measure.






9. A musical composition written solely to improve technique. Often performed for artistic interest.






10. Pertains to tone or tones.






11. Arrangement of music for a combined number of instruments.






12. A style of singing which is characterized by the easy and flowing tone of the composition.






13. A musical form where the principal theme is repeated several times. The rondo was often used for the final movements of classical sonata form works.






14. A short piano piece - often improvisational and intimate in character.






15. One of the two modes of the tonal system. The minor mode can be identified by the dark - melancholic mood.






16. A solo concert with or without accompaniment.






17. Atonal and violent style used as a means of evoking heightened emotions and states of mind.






18. A musical style characterized as excessive - ornamental - and trivial.






19. One who directs a group of performers. The conductor indicates the tempo - phrasing - dynamics - and style by gestures and facial expressions.






20. Repetition of a single tone.






21. Slow and stately dance music written in triple time.






22. To repeat a previous part of a composition generally after other music has been played.






23. Primary theme or subject that is developed.






24. A system of notation for stringed instruments. The notes are indicated by the finger positions.






25. A form of writing for vocals that is close to the manner of speech and is rhythmically free.






26. A rhythmic succession of musical tones - a melody for instruments and voices.






27. Arranging a piece of music for an orchestra. Also - the study of music.






28. A system of notation for stringed instruments. The notes are indicated by the finger positions.






29. Slow and stately dance music written in triple time.






30. Tones used to embellish the principal melodic tone.






31. Includes all twelve notes of an octave.






32. Word to indicate the movement or entire composition is to be played very slow and serious.






33. A contrapuntal song written for at least three voices - usually without accompaniment.






34. A canon where the melody is sung in two or more voices. After the first voice begins - the next voice starts singing after a couple of measures are played in the preceding voice. All parts repeat continuously.






35. Movement in music where the characteristics are crisp and direct.






36. The principal note of a triad.






37. A composition written for three to six voices. Beginning with the exposition - each voice enters at different times - creating counterpoint with one another.






38. A set of five musicians who perform a composition written for five parts.






39. A symbol indicating that the note is to be diminished by one semitone.






40. An extended solo - often accompanying the vocal part of an aria.






41. A symbol indicating to play loud.






42. Vocal composition written for three or more solo parts - usually without instrumental accompaniment.






43. Harsh - discordant - and lack of harmony. Also a chord that sounds incomplete until it resolves itself on a harmonious chord.






44. Music written to be sung or played in unison.






45. Quick repetition of the same note or the rapid alternation between two notes.






46. A drama where the words are sung instead of spoken.






47. A composition written for nine instruments.






48. Primary theme or subject that is developed.






49. Tone color - quality of sound that distinguishes one verse or instrument to another. It is determined by the harmonies of sound.






50. Closing section of a movement.